The Pick ‘n Pay Amashovashova National Classic is all set for a showdown come October 22 in the elite men’s race. The news that Robbie Hunter is back from Europe to ride in the Amashova has thrown down the gauntlet to other pro riders.
“Robbie isn’t back in SA as a tourist, he is here to go for the win. I know he is in great shape and I think that he will be tough to beat on the day” said hot favourite, Malcolm Lange from Johannesburg yesterday.
Still holding pride of place on the cycling star’s wall at home is a photo of when he first won the Pick 'n Pay Amashovashova National Classic back in 1991. Now, 15 years on, Lange is still one of the hot favourites in the race which takes place between Pietermaritzburg and Durban on Sunday. The 33-year-old, who has won the race five times, is ready to race.
"Sentimentally, this race is one of my favourites," admitted Lange. "We all really look forward to going to KZN. It's a hilly race, but without any major climbs. We enjoy the route and the weather," he said. "I still have a photo of my first win in 1991 up on my wall at home. That year I was 17, and I managed to beat Andrew McLean and Willie Engelbrecht, and it is still a very special memory.
Lange, with the help of his dedicated Microsoft teamates, is tipped as one of the favourites for the race.
“I don’t think it is going to be a bunch sprint, I am hoping that we can open the race up – it would be good if we could split the group up early as we can then race. This would get us a good result I think” said Lange.
“I have won my last four races and I am feeling really good for next week. In fact I am probably in the best shape of my life right now. I have always done well at the Amashova and with probably one more season left in me, I would love to take this one” said a confident Lange.
With the road closed to vehicular traffic for the whole race, it is down to racing for the pro riders.
The elite men and u23 start times have been moved forward to 06h15 to accommodate live TV. The elite ladies will start at 06h25.
The ladies race is expected to be fought out between Ronel van Wyk and Anriette Schoeman. Both riders are previous winners of the race and are shown to be in good form.
The stage is set for a thrilling spectacle as more than 8000 riders ride the Road of Champions and enjoy the special attractions and hospitality of KwaZulu-Natal - and the event entrenches the Zulu Kingdom's reputation as the sporting capital of South Africa.
The race will be televised live on SABC 2 from 06h00 to 10h00 on race day for the first time and organisers are confident that this will be a huge boost for the marketing of the event and the region as a whole.
Spectators are encouraged to support the thousands of cyclists on the route.
Late entries will be accepted subject to a late entry fee on October 19, 20 and 21 at the Expo at the Suncoast Casino.
For further information please go to www.shova.co.za
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